Bhubaneswar: ​Prominent political figures gathered on the legislative assembly premises to pay tribute to revolutionary martyr Jayi Rajguru on his death anniversary. The ceremony honored the memory of one of the nation's earliest freedom fighters, who valiantly challenged British rule in the early 1800s. 
Political Leaders ​Honor Jayi Rajguru: Tributes to Freedom Martyr


​A Moment of Remembrance

​A distinguished group of officials assembled beside the State Legislative Assembly, near the statue of the great revolutionary, to offer their respects. The leaders laid floral tributes at the base of the statue, collectively recalling the immense sacrifice Jayi Rajguru made for the cause of independence.
​Speaker Mrs. Surama Padhi led the tributes, emphasizing the revolutionary's unwavering courage and deep-seated patriotism. Deputy Chief Minister Mrs. Prabhati Parida joined her, acknowledging Rajguru's pivotal role in resisting the oppressive British regime. The state's political leadership showed a united front in honoring the historical figure.

​Senior Officials Pay Homage

​Other high-ranking members of the assembly and the state cabinet also participated in the solemn event. Deputy Speaker Mr. Bhavan Shankar Bhoi paid his respects, highlighting the need for the current generation to learn from the martyr's life. Minister Mr. Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia and Minister Mr. Suryabanshi Suraj stood together, offering flowers and a moment of silence in recognition of the historical leader's importance. Additionally, legislator Mr. Babu Singh joined the dignitaries, signifying the collective respect across party lines for Jayi Rajguru's legacy. Many other respected personalities and assembly members also attended, reflecting the wide appreciation for the revolutionary hero's sacrifice.

​Jayi Rajguru's Enduring Legacy

​Jayi Rajguru, whose original name was Jayakrushna Rajaguru Mohapatra, served as the Chief Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Khurda kingdom in Odisha. Historians widely consider him one of India's earliest martyrs in the freedom struggle against the British East India Company. Born in 1739, he fearlessly organized and led an armed resistance, famously known as the Paika Rebellion of 1804, in the region. He motivated a peasant militia, the Paikas, to rise up and defend their homeland against colonial expansion. 
Political Leaders ​Honor Jayi Rajguru: Tributes to Freedom Martyr


​The British captured him after a fierce fight. They executed him on December 6, 1806, for his role in organizing the revolt. His resistance laid the groundwork for future movements against foreign rule. The assembly's annual observance on his death anniversary ensures the state remembers his remarkable bravery and the ultimate price he paid for the nation's freedom. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the deep roots of India's independence movement, long before it became a national-level agitation. The leaders’ actions underscore the continued relevance of his legacy in inspiring state pride and national identity.